Mr Ongwae replaces Ms Eva Oduor, who Mr Mohamed dismissed from the position in August last year on allegations insubordination.

The two had disagreed on how to proceed in construction of Kebs's Mombasa laboratory project. Mr Charles Gichahi, a director at the standards body, had been appointed as the managing director in acting capacity.

Until his appointment, Mr Ongwae has been serving as the managing director, Barclays Bank, Uganda since April, 2009.

Mr Ongwae, who was appointed in a Gazette notice dated January 24, has served in many senior posts at Barclays, a bank whose regional office was headed by Mr Mohamed.

Mr Ongwae had also served in other capacities including that of chief financial officer and as director of finance and planning at Barclays Bank of Kenya since 2002.

Mr Mohamed served as managing director Barclays Bank Kenya for 13 years, after which he worked briefly as the chief administration officer for the bank's Africa operations.